US supports Taiwanese ICAO bid, lawmaker says

Staff writer, with CNA

A US lawmaker said on Wednesday in Washington that the US supports Taiwan’s bid to participate in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), adding that both the Senate and the House of Representatives are working together to secure the nation’s entry into the organization.

Representative Ed Royce, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said during a seminar organized by the Center for National Policy that after Taiwan was admitted to the US visa-waiver program last year, air traffic between Taiwan and the US has increased dramatically.

As a result, it is more important than ever to help Taiwan gain access to the ICAO, an organization dedicated to promoting safe and efficient flying, he said.

The Republican made the comments after the House unanimously passed legislation earlier this month calling for the US secretary of state to endorse Taiwan’s entry into the ICAO as an observer.

Taiwan is also home to the 10th-largest airport in the world, Royce said, adding that the passage of the legislation is significant toward ensuring that Taiwanese airports and airlines have access to the latest technologies and aviation standards.

A version of the bill will be finalized between the House and the Senate and signed into law by US President Barack Obama.

Asked whether the US administration would support Taiwan’s bid at the ICAO’s triennial assembly this September in Montreal, Royce replied in the affirmative.

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